The VoltShare commercial EV charger suite and accompanying app have been designed for hospitality businesses and other small-medium sized venues such as schools. The design of the chargers, the software that supports them, and the features we offer are based upon the specific needs of the people who run these venues, and the service provided around them is to a high commercial standard.

However, we think it’s worth exploring the non-commercial charging options out there, just to help you get a feel for the products your guests may be familiar with at home. Here we look at the four most popular ‘off the shelf’ chargers in the UK.

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Pros and Cons of Pod Point EV Chargers

Pod Point EV chargers are sleek and efficient with robust app integration, making them ideal for homeowners looking for smart functionality and easy-to-use scheduling features. These chargers are best suited for those who prefer cost-effective solutions with solid customer service and installation ease.

Pros

• Efficient Design: The Pod Point Solo 3 EV Charger has a sleek, compact design with a durable polycarbonate case. Its design allows for easy cable management and a tidy installation setup.
• Smart Features: It includes a mobile app that helps scheduled charging, allowing users to take advantage of cheaper electricity rates. The app also provides useful data on charging sessions and costs.
• Cost-Effective Charging Solutions: Pod Point EV chargers offer competitive pricing with a tariff from EDF, allowing charging for as low as 8.49p per kWh during off-peak hours. This can be very cost-effective for users with home charging setups.

Cons

• App Reliability Issues: Some users have reported connectivity issues with the Pod Point app, which could affect the scheduling and monitoring of charging sessions.
• Limited Customisation Options: The design options for the Pod Point EV chargers are limited, primarily offering a grey/black colour scheme.
• Installation Requirements: While the installation process is straightforward, it requires a stable Wi-Fi connection, and users must rely on professional installation to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

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Pros and Cons of Zappi EV Chargers

Zappi EV chargers stand out for their integration with renewable energy sources and smart charging options, making them excellent for eco-conscious users with home solar, wind, or hydro installations. They are particularly suited for those looking to maximize the use of renewable energy in EV charging.

Pros

• Renewable Energy Integration: Zappi EV chargers excel in integrating with renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and micro-hydro systems, allowing for greener and potentially cost-free charging when conditions allow.
• Smart Charging Options: Offers multiple charging modes (ECO, ECO+, and FAST) that can automatically adjust the charging rate based on the available power, perfecting for efficiency and energy source.
• Robust Design and Features: The Zappi is well-built with a weatherproof design suitable for outdoor installations. It features an intuitive interface with an LCD display and LED indicators, providing a user-friendly charging experience.

Cons

• App Limitations: While the Zappi EV charger hardware is highly praised, the associated app lacks some in-depth features and data accessibility, which might limit user control and monitoring capabilities.
• Higher Initial Cost: Zappi chargers are often more expensive than some other models, especially when added components like the Myenergi Hub are considered.
• Bulky Design: The physical size of the Zappi EV charger is larger than many other chargers, which may require more space for installation and may not suit every home environment.

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Pros and Cons of Rolec EV Chargers

Rolec EV chargers offer a broad array of affordable and reliable charging solutions that are easy to install, making them an ideal choice for residential users. This brand is best suited for those looking for budget-friendly, no-frills charging options that still offer essential safety features and compliance with regulations.

Pros

• Cost-Effectiveness: Rolec EV chargers are some of the most affordable options on the market, making them accessible to a wider audience. The QUBEV Smart, for example, is noted for its competitive pricing and is recognized as a budget-friendly choice that meets UK regulations.
• Diverse Product Range: Rolec provides a variety of chargers suitable for both home and commercial use, including models that support up to 22kW of charging power. This diversity makes it easier for customers to find a charger that fits their specific needs.
• Installation and Safety Features: Many Rolec EV chargers come with integrated safety features like fault detection and dynamic load balancing. Installation is straightforward, often not requiring an earth rod, which simplifies the setup process.

Cons

• Basic Features in Lower-End Models: Some of the more economically priced Rolec EV charger models lack advanced features found in other brands, such as smart charging capabilities and detailed displays. For example, the basic WallPod model doesn't include smart features, which are instead available in the HomeSmart version.
• Design and Aesthetics: While functional, some users might find the design of Rolec EV chargers less appealing compared to other brands. The basic models can be quite plain, and though there are various colour options, the overall aesthetic might not suit everyone.
• App Integration and Functionality: The Rolec app, necessary for using smart features on certain models, may not offer as robust a set of controls or monitoring options compared to competitors, which might affect user experience for those looking to actively manage their charging sessions.

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Pros and Cons of Hypervolt EV Chargers

Hypervolt EV chargers combine high-tech features with a sleek design, including voice control and advanced connectivity options like Wi-Fi and app integration. They are ideal for tech-savvy users looking for a high-performance, aesthetically pleasing charger that integrates smoothly with smart home systems.

Pros

• Aesthetic Design and Advanced Features: Hypervolt EV chargers are known for their sleek design and advanced technological features such as voice control via Alexa, integrated LED status lights, and Wi-Fi connectivity for app-based controls. This makes them not only functional but also a stylish addition to any home.
• Solar Compatibility and Energy Efficiency: The Hypervolt EV chargers come with built-in solar compatibility, allowing users to charge their EVs using solar power. This feature supports eco-friendly charging and can help reduce electricity costs when paired with a home solar installation.
• User-Friendly Installation and Maintenance: These chargers are easy to install, thanks in part to features like the built-in cable tidy and pre-configured circuitry, making them a preferred choice among electricians. The company also provides robust customer support and over-the-air updates to keep the chargers functioning smoothly.

Cons

• Higher Cost Compared to Basic Models: While offering many advanced features, Hypervolt EV chargers tend to be on the pricier side, especially when compared to more basic or budget-friendly models from other brands.
• App Usability Issues: Despite a generally robust performance, there have been reports of occasional difficulties with app connectivity and functionality, which can affect the user experience for monitoring and controlling the charger.
• Size and Visibility: Some users might find the charger's size and prominent design features, like the large LED status lights, less discreet than other models. While these features enhance usability and aesthetics, they may not blend as seamlessly into all environments.

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As highlighted at the top of this article, VoltShare’s commercial EV chargers are designed for hospitality businesses and other small-medium sized venues such as schools. They offer a more comprehensive solution for commercial venues, without the complicated legal contracts of other options, plus they allow venues to control the pricing and charges for their guests and visitors.

For EV users at home, the options available give them plenty of choice, depending on their individual needs.

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